Napkin holder

ABSTRACT

Packaging for napkins comprising: a box for holding napkins comprising a bottom panel, two relatively large parallel side panels perpendicular to the bottom panel, two parallel tie panels opposite each other and perpendicular to the side panels that connect the side panels together, wherein when the box is filled with napkins the side panels are parallel to the planes of the napkins; at least one stabilizer having an operative position and a non-operative position; wherein in the non-operative orientation, the stabilizer does not substantially affect the shape of the box and in the operative orientation, the stabilizer stabilizes the position of the box when the box is placed with its bottom panel parallel to and contiguous with or close to a planar surface.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit under 35 USC 119(e) of U.S. Ser. No.60/478,368 filed on Jun. 16, 2003, the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to napkin holders and in particular to point ofpurchase packaging for napkins that function as napkin holders for useon a table.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Napkins in retail-sale quantities are often cellophane wrapped orpackaged in lightweight cardboard cartons for point of purchasepresentation and sale. The packaging may be decorated or plain. In somecases, for relatively large retail quantities of napkins packaged incartons, the cartons may be used as convenient and decorative napkinholders. A carton used to package a large quantity of napkins may bewide enough in a direction along which the napkins are stacked insidethe carton so that the carton may be placed on a table with the planesof the napkins “upright”, i.e. substantially perpendicular to the table.A napkin may be taken out of the carton through a suitable openingproduced by removing a portion of the carton delineated by a line orlines of perforations. The carton thereby presents the napkins on thetable to a diner in much the same way that a conventional refillablenapkin holder, fabricated for example out of plastic, metal or ceramic,presents napkins to a diner.

On the other hand, for napkins packaged in relatively small quantities,for example in quantities of 50 or less, a point of purchase packagethat contains the napkins is generally too narrow to be stably placedwith an edge of the package on a table and the napkins in an uprightposition. However, for many occasions it is often convenient ordesirable to present a relatively small quantity of napkins on a tableor to present relatively small quantities of napkins at differentlocations on a table. It would therefore be convenient to have arelatively small quantity of napkins packaged in point of purchasepackaging that could function as a napkin holder that hold the napkinsupright on a table.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An aspect of some embodiments of the present invention relates toproviding point of purchase packaging for a relatively small quantity ofnapkins that can function as a napkin holder for substantially uprightpresentation of the napkins on a table.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention thepackaging comprises a container, hereinafter referred to as a“dual-function box”, for holding a quantity of napkins, and at least onestabilizing element. The box, optionally formed from cardboard, has arelatively narrow panel, hereinafter a “bottom panel”, which iscontiguous with edges of the napkins and, when the box is fully filledwith napkins, substantially perpendicular to the planes of the napkins.

The at least one stabilizing element has a non-operative position and anoperative position. When the at least one stabilizer is in thenon-operative position, the packaged napkins have a conventional,box-like shape having four rectangular, relatively narrow edge surfacesand two relatively large face surfaces. With its at least one stabilizernon-operative, the package is suitable for convenient stacking on ashelf at a point of purchase, for example on a shelf in a super market.When the at least one stabilizer is in the operative position, the boxmay be placed with its bottom panel on a table so that the box and thenapkins it contains are substantially in an upright or near uprightposition. The at least one stabilizer functions to stabilize the box inthe upright position in which it is placed and reduces ease with whichthe box may be tipped over. In some embodiments of the invention, withits at least one stabilizer operative, the box may be stably placed withit bottom panel on a table but with the box and its napkins angled withrespect to the upright direction, i.e. angled with respect to a normalto the table. Napkins in the napkin box are removed from the box througha suitable opening.

In some embodiments of the invention, the stabilizer is a foldableelement, hereinafter referred to as a “foldable stabilizer”, integrallyformed with the dual-function box. The at least one foldable stabilizerhas a folded or “retracted” position and an unfolded or “extended”position. The stabilizer is in a non-operative position when folded orretracted and in an operative position when unfolded or extended.

In some embodiments of the invention, a stabilizer is not an integralelement of the dual-function box construction but is a separatestabilizer, which is packaged with the dual-function box. To adapt thebox to function as a napkin holder the stabilizer is attached to the boxto stabilize the box when it is placed on a table with its bottom panelon the table.

In some embodiments of the invention, the stabilizer is formed with tabsand is attached to the box by inserting the tabs into matching slots inthe box. In some embodiments of the invention, the stabilizer has anadhesive formed on a region thereon. A removable non-stick filmoptionally protects the adhesive. The stabilizer is attached to the boxby removing the protective film and pressing the adhesive to the box. Insome embodiments of the present invention the stabilizer has a VELCRO™loop or hook fastener attached thereto and the dual-function box has acorresponding VELCRO™ hook or loop fastener attached thereto. To attachthe stabilizer to the box the hook and loop regions are pressedtogether.

With its at least one stabilizer non-operative a dual-function box issaid to be in a “stackable configuration” and with its at least onestabilizer operative the dual-function box is said to be in a “servingconfiguration”.

There is therefore provided in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention packaging for napkins comprising: a box for holdingnapkins comprising a bottom panel, two relatively large parallel sidepanels perpendicular to the bottom panel, two parallel tie panelsopposite each other and perpendicular to the side panels that connectthe side panels together, wherein when the box is filled with napkinsthe side panels are parallel to the planes of the napkins; at least onestabilizer having an operative position and a non-operative position;wherein in the non-operative orientation, the stabilizer does notsubstantially affect the shape of the box and in the operativeorientation, the stabilizer stabilizes the position of the box when thebox is placed with its bottom panel parallel to and contiguous with orclose to a planar surface.

Optionally, the stabilizer comprises at least one foldable element andin the non-operative position the foldable element is folded and in theoperative position the stabilizer is unfolded.

Optionally, the folded element is a pleat parallel to the side panelsformed in the bottom panel of the box, wherein when the pleat is folded,the bottom panel has a first width and when the pleat is unfolded thebottom panel has a second width greater than the first width, whereinthe panel width is a dimension perpendicular to the side panels.

Optionally, at least one of the side panels is creased and/or perforatedalong a line parallel to the bottom panel and when the pleat is unfoldedthe at least one side panel is bent along the crease line.

In some embodiments of the present invention the foldable elementcomprises a region of at least one panel defined by a closed perimeterhaving a perforated section and a non-perforated section and wherein inthe operative position the perimeter is torn along the perforatedsection and the foldable element is folded along the non-perforatedsection so that it extends outward from the box.

Optionally, the at least one panel comprises a side panel. Additionallyor alternatively, the at least one panel comprises the bottom panel. Insome embodiments of the present invention, the at least one panelcomprises a tie panel.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the at least onestabilizer comprises at least one element rotatably attached to thebottom panel and in the non-operative position the element does notprotrude beyond the side panels and in the operative position therotatable element is rotated into a position in which a portion of theelement protrudes beyond at least one of the side panels.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the base panel has a firstedge along which it is connected to a first one of the side panels and asecond edged substantially coplanar with but not attached to a secondone of the side panels and the stabilizer comprises:

-   -   a first panel connected to the second edge of the base panel; a        second panel connected to the second side panel along a line        parallel to the base panel; and a third panel connected to the        first panel and connected to the second panel along a line        parallel to the base panel; wherein in the non-operative        position the second and third panels are sandwiched between the        first panel and the second side panel and in the operative        position the first, second and bottom panels are substantially        perpendicular to the side panels and the third panel is        substantially coplanar with the second side panel.

Optionally, the packaging comprises at least one VELCRO™ hook fastenerattached to the first panel and a matching VELCRO™ loop fastener locatedon the bottom panel or on the third panel, which when the stabilizer isin the operative position are coupled together and secure the stabilizerin the operative position.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the stabilizer comprises asupport panel having a lower panel connected to the bottom panel and anupper panel having a tab, which upper panel borders the lower panelalong a creased and/or perforated line parallel to the bottom panel, andin the non-operative position the lower and upper panels aresubstantially coplanar and contiguous with a side panel having a slotcorresponding to the tab formed therein and in the operative positionthe lower panel is substantially perpendicular to the side panel, theupper panel is folded along the common border and the tab is inserted inthe slot.

There is further provided in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention, packaging for napkins comprising: a box for holdingnapkins comprising a bottom panel, two relatively large parallel sidepanels perpendicular to the bottom panel, two parallel tie panelsopposite each other and perpendicular to the side panels that connectthe side panels together, wherein when the box is filled with napkinsthe side panels are parallel to the planes of the napkins; and at leastone support panel separate from the box and attachable to the box sothat at least a portion of the support panel extends outward from thebox and stabilizes the position of the box when the box is placed withits bottom panel contiguous with a planar surface.

Optionally, the support panel is formed with tabs and the box is formedwith slots that match the tabs and wherein in the operative position thetabs are inserted into the slots.

Optionally, the support panel or a panel of the box has an adhesive andwherein in the operative position the adhesive region binds the supportpanel to the box.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the support panel has aVELCRO™ hook or loop fastener region and a panel of the box hasrespectively a matching loop or hook fastener region and wherein in theoperative position the loop and hook fastener regions are pressedtogether to attach the support panel to the box.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

Non-limiting examples of embodiments of the present invention aredescribed below with reference to figures attached hereto. In thefigures, identical structures, elements or parts that appear in morethan one figure are generally labeled with a same numeral in all thefigures in which they appear. Dimensions of components and featuresshown in the figures are chosen for convenience and clarity ofpresentation and are not necessarily shown to scale. The figures arelisted below.

FIGS. 1A and 1B schematically show respectively an empty andnapkin-filled dual-function box comprising a foldable stabilizer and ina stackable configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIGS. 1C and 1D schematically show respectively the empty andnapkin-filled dual-function box shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B in a servingconfiguration, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 1E schematically shows a variation of the dual-function box shownin FIGS. 1A-1D, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIGS. 2A and 2B schematically show another dual-function box comprisinga foldable stabilizer in a stackable configuration and a servingconfiguration respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIGS. 3A and 3B schematically show a dual-function box, having foldablestabilizers formed on side panels of the box, in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4A schematically shows a dual-function box having arcuate shapedfoldable stabilizers, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 4B schematically shows another dual-function box having foldablestabilizers, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 5A and 5B schematically show a dual-function box formed with slotsfor receiving a stabilizer having matching tabs, in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 6A and 6B schematically show a dual-function box, which is coupledto two stabilizers to convert the box to a serving configuration, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 7A and 7B schematically show a dual-function box and a stabilizerhaving an adhesive region that is used to attach the stabilizer to thebox, in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 8A and 8B schematically show a dual-function box having at leastone stabilizer that is rotated from its non-operative position to itsoperative position, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIGS. 9A-9D schematically show stages in unfolding a stabilizer of adual-function napkin box, in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIGS. 10A-10C schematically show the dual-function box shown in FIGS.9A-9D with the addition of VELCRO™ fasteners to secure its stabilizersin an operative position, in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention; and

FIGS. 11A and 11B schematically show another dual-function box inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 12A and 12B schematically show a variation of a dual function boxfor packaging products other than napkins, in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

FIGS. 1A and 1B schematically show an empty dual-function box 20 havinga foldable stabilizer, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention. Box 20 is shown empty and in a stackable configuration inFIG. 1A and in the stackable configuration but filled with napkins 22 inFIG. 1B.

Dual-function box 20 comprises two relatively large side panels 24 and abottom panel 26 having long edges 28 and a pleat 30, substantiallyparallel to the long edges, that functions as a foldable stabilizer.Pleat 30 is produced by a top bend 32 and two lateral bends 33 formed inbottom panel 26. Whereas pleat 30 is shown located substantiallyequidistant from long edges 28 of bottom panel 26, pleat 30 may belocated closer to one of the edges. Side panels 24 have top edges 34,side edges 36 and are optionally rectangular and have same dimensions. Atie panel 40 connects each side edge 36 of one side panel 24 to acorresponding side edge 36 opposite it on the other side panel. Each tiepanel 40 has a bottom edge 41 displaced from bottom panel 26 and a topedge 42 optionally parallel to the bottom edge. Bottom edge 41 of eachtie panel 40 intersects a side edge 36 of each side panel 36 at anintersection point 37. Optionally, bottom edge 41 of each tie panel 40is located at a same height above bottom panel 26. Optionally, tiepanels 40 have identical shapes. Each side panel 24 is optionallyperforated or creased along a dashed line 44 that optionally connectsintersection points 37 of the panel's side edges 36 with bottom edges 41of tie panels 40. For convenience of presentation it is assumed thatlines 44 represent creases. In the stackable configuration, optionally,a suitable cellophane wrapper (not shown) seals and protectsdual-function box 20 and napkins 22 contained therein.

Dual-function box 20 is converted from the stackable configuration tothe serving configuration by pressing down on top bend 32 with thefingers to flatten out pleat 30 and put the pleat into an operativeposition. Flattening out pleat 30 increases the width of bottom panel 26so that box 20 and napkins 22 may be placed on a table (not shown) withthe bottom panel in contact with the table and the box and napkinsstably in an upright position. Flattening out pleat 30 to expand bottompanel 26 generates bending forces on side panels 24 that operate tooppose the flattening of the pleat and to tear tie panels 40. Creases 44formed in side panels 24 reduce the bending forces and their tendency totear tie panels 40 by enabling the bending forces to relatively easilybend side panels 24 along their respective crease. FIG. 1C schematicallyshows dual-function box 20 empty and in a serving configuration withpleat 30 flattened. FIG. 1D schematically shows dual-function box 20 ina serving configuration with pleat 30 flattened and filled with napkins22.

Whereas FIGS. 1A-1D schematically show dual-function box 20 having acrease 44 on each side panel 24, a dual-function box in accordance withan embodiment of the present invention may have a crease (or line ofperforations) 44 on only one of its side panels. For such adual-function box, when a pleat 30 in the box's bottom panel 26 isflattened out to convert the box to the serving configuration, the boxwill lean towards the side panel 24 having the crease. A servingconfiguration that “leans” can be advantageous for presentation ofnapkins 22 contained in box 20.

FIG. 1E schematically shows a dual-function box 50 having side panels 51and 52 and a crease 54 (or line of perforations) on side panel 51 butnot on side panel 52, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention. Box 50 is shown in the serving configuration leaning to oneside and with its pleat stabilizer 30 flattened. Optionally, side panel51 is sufficiently long to support napkins 22 so that they do not“droop” over a top edge 34 of the box.

FIGS. 2A and 2B schematically show a dual-function box 60 in a stackableconfiguration and a serving configuration respectively, in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention. For clarity ofpresentation, in FIG. 2A box 30 is shown empty and in FIG. 2B the box isshown filled with napkins 22. Features germane to the discussion orvisualization of germane features, which are not normally seen in theperspective of FIG. 2A, are shown in ghost lines.

Dual-function box 60 comprises by way of example side panels 24 havingside edges 36, tie panels 62 and a bottom panel 26 having long edges 28.Bottom panel 26 has perforation lines 64 formed therein along which thematerial from which box 60 is formed may be relatively easily torn. Eachperforation line 64 begins and ends at points 66 lying substantiallyalong a same long edge 28 of bottom panel 26. At least one perforationline 64 begins and ends along each edge 28.

Perforation lines 64 delineate regions 68 of bottom panel 26 thatfunction as foldable stabilizers. By way of example in FIGS. 2A and 2Bperforation lines 64 are semicircular and stabilizers 68 aresemicircular. However perforation lines 64 may have shapes other thansemicircular and may for example delineate triangular, elliptical orrectangular regions of bottom panel 26. In addition, whereas bottompanel 26 has three perforation lines 64 that delineate three stabilizers68, a bottom panel of a dual-function box in accordance with anembodiment of the invention may have any number of perforation lines,and thereby stabilizers, equal to or greater than two.

To convert box 60 to a serving configuration, bottom panel 26 is tornalong perforation lines 64 and stabilizers 68 are folded through about180° so that they are coplanar with bottom panel 26 and extend outwardsfrom the box. FIG. 2B schematically shows box 60 filled with napkins 22and stabilizers 68 in their extended, operative positions. Onlystabilizers 68 on one side of box 60 are shown in the perspective ofFIG. 2B Whereas dual box 60 comprises stabilizers formed on bottom panel26, in some embodiments of the present invention, a dual-function boxhas stabilizers formed on side panels 24 of the box.

FIGS. 3A and 3B schematically show a dual-function box 70, havingstabilizers formed on side panels 24 of the box. FIG. 3A schematicallyshows dual-function box 70 empty and in a stackable configuration.Features germane to the discussion of dual-function box 70 not normallyseen in the perspective of FIG. 3A are shown in ghost lines. FIG. 3Bschematically shows dual-function box 70 with its stabilizers in theiroperative, extended positions.

Box 70 has at least one stabilizer 72 delineated by a perforation line74 on each side panel 24. Each perforation line 74 begins and ends atpoints 76 substantially along a same side edge 36 of the panel and has asection 78 of the perforation line that lies substantially along a longedge 28 of bottom panel 26. Section 78 of a perforation line 74 is shownslightly raised above edge 28 for clarity of visualization. By way ofexample, box 70 has four perforation lines 74, each of which delineatesa quarter circle stabilizer 72. For clarity of presentation and toprevent clutter, only some features of dual-function box identified by asame numeral are labeled by the numeral. “Side panel” stabilizers, inaccordance with embodiments of the invention may have shapes other thanthose shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B.

FIG. 4A schematically shows a dual-function box 80 in a servingconfiguration and filled with napkins 22. Dual-function box 80 comprisesstabilizers 82 having, by way of example, an arcuate shape.

Foldable stabilizers similar to foldable stabilizers 68, 72 or 82 mayalso be formed on tie panels 62, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention. FIG. 4B schematically shows a dual-function box 180 havingtwo foldable stabilizers 182 formed on each tie panel 62 of the box. Inthe figure, box 180 is shown in a serving configuration and stabilizers182, only three of which are seen in the perspective of the figure, inoperative positions. It is noted that whereas dual-function box 180 hastwo foldable stabilizers 182 formed on each tie panel 62, in someembodiments of the invention a box similar to box 180 may have a singlefoldable stabilizer similar to a stabilizer 182 on each tie panel 62.Single stabilizers on opposite tie panels 62 protrude from oppositesides of the box when in their respective operative positions.

In some embodiments of the present invention, a dual-function boxcomprises at least one stabilizer that is not integrally formed with thebox. In a stackable configuration the stabilizer is separate from thebox but is optionally packaged with the box and napkins it contains. Forexample, the stabilizer may be packaged inside the box with the napkinsor inside a cellophane wrapper that protects the box and the napkins itcontains. The stabilizer has a coupling feature that enables thestabilizer to be coupled to the box in an extended position thatstabilizes the box in a serving configuration.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the coupling featurecomprises tabs on the stabilizer that match slots formed in thedual-function box. To couple the at least one stabilizer to the box thetabs are inserted into the slots.

FIGS. 5A and 5B schematically show an empty dual-function box 90 formedwith slots 92 for receiving a stabilizer 94 formed with matching tabs96, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5Aschematically shows box 90 in a stackable configuration in which it isnot coupled to its stabilizer 94. FIG. 5B schematically show box 90 inits serving configuration in which stabilizer 94 is coupled to the boxand functioning in its operative position to stabilize the box'sorientation on a table (not shown). By way of example, at least onestabilizer 94 has an oval shape and slots 92 formed in box 90 are formedin side panels 24 of the box. Ghost lines show features normally hiddenin the perspective of the figures.

Configurations of slots 92 and tabs 96 and their number as well as ashape of an at least one stabilizer 94, in accordance with an embodimentof the present invention may be different from that shown in FIGS. 5Aand 5B. FIGS. 6A and 6B schematically show a dual-function box 100,which is coupled to two stabilizers 102 to convert the box to a servingconfiguration, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention. By way of example, each stabilizer 102 has two tabs 104 andbox 100 has a slot 106 to match a tab 104 along each side edge 36 ofeach side panel 24 of the box. FIG. 6A schematically shows box 100separate from its stabilizers and FIG. 6B shows the stabilizers in theiroperative positions coupled to the box by insertion of tabs 104 intotheir respective slots 106.

Variations of slot and tab configurations different from those describedabove for coupling a stabilizer to a dual-function box, in accordancewith embodiments of the present invention, will readily occur to aperson of the art.

In some embodiments of the present invention a separate at least onestabilizer is formed with an adhesive region. In a stackableconfiguration the adhesive region is covered with a protective non-stickfilm. The protective film is removed to expose the adhesive region,which is pressed to the box to couple the stabilizer in an operativeposition.

FIGS. 7A and 7B schematically show a box 110 and a stabilizer 112 havingan adhesive region 114. Adhesive region 114 is optionally protected by asuitable non-stick film (not shown) which is removed to stick stabilizer112 to bottom panel 26 and couple the stabilizer to the box so that itis operative to stabilize orientation of the box when it is placed on atable. FIGS. 7A and 7B respectively show box 110 and stabilizer 112separate and coupled together. By way of example stabilizer 112 has anoval shape similar to that of stabilizer 94 (FIGS. 5A and 5B). In someembodiments of the invention corresponding VELCRO™ loop or hook fastenerwhich are attached to box 110 and stabilizer 112 replace adhesive region114. To attach stabilizer 112 to box 110 the hook and loop regions arepressed together.

Stabilizers different from that shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B for stabilizinga dual-function box that are coupled to the box using an adhesiveregion, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, willreadily occur to a person of the art.

FIGS. 8A and 8B schematically show a napkin box 120 having at least onestabilizer 122 that is rotated from its non-operative position to itsoperative position. FIG. 8A schematically shows box 120 seen inperspective from a position in which bottom panel 26 of the box is seen.Box 120 has, by way of example, two rotatable stabilizers 122, each ofwhich is attached to bottom panel 26 of the box by a suitable rivet 124or fastener, using any of various devices and techniques known in theart. In FIG. 8A stabilizers 122 are in their non-operative position anddo not protrude beyond edges 28 of bottom panel 26. A rivet 124, whichattaches a stabilizer 122 to bottom panel 26 allows the stabilizer to berotated to its operative position in which it sticks out beyond edges 28of the bottom panel. FIG. 8B schematically shows box 120 with itsstabilizers 122 in their operative positions.

FIGS. 9A-9B schematically show another dual-function napkin box 130 andstages in unfolding the dual-function box's relatively larger foldingstabilizer 132, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention. Features of napkin box 130 in FIGS. 9A-9D germane to thediscussion, which would not normally be seen in the perspective of thefigures, are shown in dashed lines.

Folding stabilizer 132 comprises a fold-over “support” panel 134, whichwhen napkin-box 130 is in a stackable configuration, is folded along aside panel 24 of the napkin box. Fold-over panel 134 is connected tobottom panel 26 along an edge 28 of the bottom panel and to side panel24 along an edge 136 of the side panel by two connecting panels 138 and140. Panels 138 and 139 are connected to each other along a perforatedor creased line 139. FIG. 9A schematically shows box 130 in itsstackable configuration with stabilizer 132 folded along side panel 24.In the figure, fold-over panel 134 is shown not quite lying flush withside panel 24 in order to more clearly show connecting panels 138 and140 and to show how fold-over panel is connected to side panel 24 andbottom panel 26.

FIGS. 9B and 9C show different positions of folding stabilizer 132 as itis unfolded from its non-operative position to its operative positionschematically shown in FIG. 9D. In the operative position, ideallybottom panel 26 and connecting panel 140 are substantially flush withfold over panel 134. In FIG. 9D bottom panel 26 and connecting panel 140are not quite flush with fold-over panel 134 to more clearly show therelationship between the fold-over panel, the bottom panel and theconnecting panel when napkin box 130 is in a serving configuration withstabilizer 132 in an operative-position.

Optionally, in the operative position of stabilizer 132, connectingpanel 140 and bottom panel 26 are securely fastened to fold-over panel134 so as to prevent the bottom panel or the connecting panel from“lifting off” of the fold-over panel. Optionally, to fasten fold-overpanel 134 to bottom panel 26 and connecting panel 140, opposing regionsof VELCRO™ hook fasteners and VELCRO™ loop fasteners are located on thebottom panel, the connecting panel and fold-over panel 134. The hook andloop fastener regions are located so that when stabilizer 132 is in anoperating position a hook or loop region on bottom panel 26 is locatedopposite a loop or hook region respectively on fold-over panel 134.Similarly, a hook or loop fastener region located on connecting panel140 is opposite a loop or hook fastener region respectively on fold-overpanel 134 when stabilizer 132 is in the operating position. Whenstabilizer 134 is unfolded into its operating position, pressure isapplied to fasten the hook regions to the loop regions to securelyfasten bottom pane 26 and connecting panel 140 to fold-over panel 134.

A napkin box 150, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention, identical to napkin box 130 shown in FIGS. 9A-9D except forthe addition of VELCRO™ fastener regions is schematically shown in FIGS.10A-10C. In FIG. 10A napkin box 150 is shown in a stackableconfiguration. Optionally, fold-over panel 134 has two fastener regions,which are on the “inside” surface of the panel and are not normally seenin the perspective of FIG. 10A. The fastener regions are shown as dashedshaded regions 151 and 152. A fastener region 153 on bottom panel 26 isopposite fastener region 151 when stabilizer 132 is in its operativeposition. A portion of fastener region 153 not normally seen in theperspective of FIG. 10A is shown with dashed shading. A fastener region154 located on connecting panel 140, which is opposite fastener region152 in the operative position is not seen in FIG. 10A because it isdirectly opposite fastener region 152 in the non-operative position aswell, and in FIG. 10A is hidden by fastener region 152. Fastener region154 is shown in FIG. 10B, which shows an optional position of stabilizer132 between its non-operative position and its operative position. Theoperative position of stabilizer 132 is shown in FIG. 10C in whichnapkin box 150 is in a serving configuration. In FIG. 10C fastenerregions 153 and 154 on respectively hide fastener regions 151 and 152 onfold-over panel 134.

It is noted that in the non-operative position of stabilizer 132, whenfold-over panel 134 is folded along panel 24, fastener regions 154 and152 on connecting panel 140 and fold-over panel 134 respectively fastenthe fold over panel to the connecting panel. In the process of unfoldingstabilizer 132 to configure the stabilizer in the operative position,connecting panel 140 may remain fastened to fold-over panel 34 withoutpreventing or substantially hindering the process. In some embodimentsof the invention, fastener regions 154 and 152 on connecting panel 140and fold-over panel 134 are replaced by a permanent adhesive bondbetween the connecting panel and the fold-over panel.

FIGS. 11A and 11B schematically show yet another dual-function box 160in a stackable configuration and a serving configuration respectively,in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Dual-function box 160 comprises two “fold-down” panels 162, each ofwhich in the stackable configuration of the box, shown in FIG. 11A, issubstantially contiguous with a different side panel 24. In theperspective of FIG. 11A only one fold-down panel is seen. Fold-downpanel 152 comprises a lower panel 167 and an upper panel 166. Lowerpanel 167 and an upper panel 166 share a common border along aperforation or crease line 164. A tab 168 extends from upper panel 162.

In FIG. 11B dual-function box is in a serving configuration and itsfold-down panels 162, only one of which is shown in FIG. 11B, are inoperative positions. In the operative position fold-down panel 162 isfolded away from side panel 24 and folded along perforation or creaseline 162 so that lower panel 167 is substantially perpendicular to sidepanel 26 and tab 168 is inserted into a slot 170 formed in side panel24.

Whereas in the above description, dual function boxes are used forpackaging napkins, dual function boxes and variations of dual functionboxes, in accordance with embodiments of the invention may be used forpackaging products other than napkins. For example, a dual function box200 with partitions may be used for point of purchase packaging and forserving of drinking straws or plastic forks, spoons and knives.

FIG. 12A schematically shows a dual function box 200 similar to dualfunction box 160 shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B but having full tie panels62 and partition panels 202 that, by way of example, divide the box'slumen into three compartments 204. Box 200 is shown in the servingconfiguration and filled, by way of example with plastic knives forksand spoons. In FIG. 12B dual function box 200 is shown in the servingconfiguration and filled with plastic forks, spoons and knives. Whereasin the above example dual function box 200 is similar to dual functionbox 160, a partitioned dual function box may be similar to other of thedual function boxes shown in FIGS. 1A-10C.

In the description and claims of the present application, each of theverbs, “comprise” “include” and “have”, and conjugates thereof, are usedto indicate that the object or objects of the verb are not necessarily acomplete listing of members, components, elements or parts of thesubject or subjects of the verb.

The present invention has been described using detailed descriptions ofembodiments thereof that are provided by way of example and are notintended to limit the scope of the invention. The described embodimentscomprise different features, not all of which are required in allembodiments of the invention. Some embodiments of the present inventionutilize only some of the features or possible combinations of thefeatures. Variations of embodiments of the present invention that aredescribed and embodiments of the present invention comprising differentcombinations of features noted in the described embodiments will occurto persons of the art. The scope of the invention is limited only by thefollowing claims.

1. Packaging for napkins comprising: a box for holding napkinscomprising a bottom panel, two relatively large parallel side panelsperpendicular to the bottom panel, two parallel tie panels opposite eachother and perpendicular to the side panels that connect the side panelstogether, wherein when the box is filled with napkins the side panelsare parallel to the planes of the napkins; and at least one stabilizerhaving an operative position and a non-operative position; wherein inthe non-operative orientation, the stabilizer does not substantiallyaffect the shape of the box and in the operative orientation, thestabilizer stabilizes the position of the box when the box is placedwith its bottom panel parallel to and contiguous with or close to aplanar surface.
 2. Packaging according to claim 1 wherein the stabilizercomprises at least one foldable element and in the non-operativeposition the foldable element is folded and in the operative positionthe stabilizer is unfolded.
 3. Packaging according to claim 2 whereinthe folded element is a pleat parallel to the side panels formed in thebottom panel of the box, wherein when the pleat is folded, the bottompanel has a first width and when the pleat is unfolded the bottom panelhas a second width greater than the first width, wherein the panel widthis a dimension perpendicular to the side panels.
 4. Packaging accordingto claim 3 wherein at least one of the side panels is creased and/orperforated along a line parallel to the bottom panel and when the pleatis unfolded the at least one side panel is bent along the crease line.5. Packaging according to claim 2 wherein the foldable element comprisesa region of at least one panel defined by a closed perimeter having aperforated section and a non-perforated section and wherein in theoperative position the perimeter is torn along the perforated sectionand the foldable element is folded along the non-perforated section sothat it extends outward from the box.
 6. Packaging according to claim 5wherein the at least one panel comprises a side panel
 7. Packagingaccording to claim 5 wherein the at least one panel comprises the bottompanel.
 8. Packaging according to claim 5 wherein the at least one panelcomprises a tie panel.
 9. Packaging according to claim 1 wherein the atleast one stabilizer comprises at least one element rotatably attachedto the bottom panel and in the non-operative position the element doesnot protrude beyond the side panels and in the operative position therotatable element is rotated into a position in which a portion of theelement protrudes beyond at least one of the side panels.
 10. Packagingaccording to claim 1 wherein the base panel has a first edge along whichit is connected to a first one of the side panels and a second edgedsubstantially coplanar with but not attached to a second one of the sidepanels and the stabilizer comprises: a first panel connected to thesecond edge of the base panel; a second panel connected to the secondside panel along a line parallel to the base panel; and a third panelconnected to the first panel and connected to the second panel along aline parallel to the base panel; wherein in the non-operative positionthe second and third panels are sandwiched between the first panel andthe second side panel and in the operative position the first, secondand bottom panels are substantially perpendicular to the side panels andthe third panel is substantially coplanar with the second side panel.11. Packaging according to claim 10 and comprising at least one VELCRO™hook fastener attached to the first panel and a matching VELCRO™ loopfastener located on the bottom panel or on the third panel, which whenthe stabilizer is in the operative position are coupled together andsecure the stabilizer in the operative position.
 12. Packaging accordingto claim 1 wherein the stabilizer comprises a support panel having alower panel connected to the bottom panel and an upper panel having atab, which upper panel borders the lower panel along a creased and/orperforated line parallel to the bottom panel, and in the non-operativeposition the lower and upper panels are substantially coplanar andcontiguous with a side panel having a slot corresponding to the tabformed therein and in the operative position the lower panel issubstantially perpendicular to the side panel, the upper panel is foldedalong the common border and the tab is inserted in the slot. 13.Packaging for napkins comprising: a box for holding napkins comprising abottom panel, two relatively large parallel side panels perpendicular tothe bottom panel, two parallel tie panels opposite each other andperpendicular to the side panels that connect the side panels together,wherein when the box is filled with napkins the side panels are parallelto the planes of the napkins; and at least one support panel separatefrom the box and attachable to the box so that at least a portion of thesupport panel extends outward from the box and stabilizes the positionof the box when the box is placed with its bottom panel contiguous witha planar surface.
 14. Packaging according to claim 13 wherein thesupport panel is formed with tabs and the box is formed with slots thatmatch the tabs and wherein in the operative position the tabs areinserted into the slots.
 15. Packaging according to claim 13 wherein thesupport panel or a panel of the box has an adhesive and wherein in theoperative position the adhesive region binds the support panel to thebox.
 16. Packaging according to claim 13 wherein the support panel has aVELCRO™ hook or loop fastener region and a panel of the box hasrespectively a matching loop or hook fastener region and wherein in theoperative position the loop and hook fastener regions are pressedtogether to attach the support panel to the box.
 17. Product packagingcomprising: a box for holding a plurality of products, the boxcomprising a bottom panel, two relatively large parallel side panelsperpendicular to the bottom panel and two parallel tie panels oppositeeach other and perpendicular to the side panels that connect the sidepanels together; at least one divider panel perpendicular to the largeside panels that divide the box's lumen into at least two compartmentsat least one stabilizer having an operative position and a non-operativeposition; wherein in the non-operative orientation, the stabilizer doesnot substantially affect the shape of the box and in the operativeorientation, the stabilizer stabilizes the position of the box when thebox is placed with its bottom panel parallel to and contiguous with orclose to a planar surface.